I’ve been to all 50 states and grew up in the Midwest. Here are my favorite things to do in this underrated region of the US.

• I grew up in the Midwest and have traveled to all 50 states.
• When in the region, I love visiting Bayfield, Wisconsin, and Starved Rock State Park in Illinois.
• I enjoy spending time in downtown Chicago when I’m in the mood for a city adventure.

As an experienced solo traveler who has visited all 50 states and every major US national park, I’m often asked for recommendations on what to do in popular vacation spots across the country.

However, as someone who grew up in Illinois, I love highlighting and recommending some of the impressive spots the Midwest has to offer.

From the dramatic beauty of the Great Lakes to the badlands in the Dakotas, there is a surprising amount of diversity and beauty within what some may consider to be flat land.

Here are some of my favorite things to do in the Midwest.